I am a mom w/ a chronic illness. Anyone know of a program or something that could help care for my children?

I am on Social Security disability and my husband works, but we can't afford to pay for help (except on a limited and occasional basis). The kind of help I'm looking for is, for instance, taking the kids to doctor and dental visits and helping them with homework, as well as doing the "extra" kinds of things that moms usually do with their kids, like baking cookies or taking the kids to the park. THANK YOU sooooo much for all of your answers. Sincerely, Becky Godlewski Oakdale, CA
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I'm sorry to hear about your condition. I love the fact that you are really focused on helping your children enjoy those experiences despite your illness. You may want to contact your children's school for any local resources that they may be aware of. You might be able to find adults who want to help (and who've been presceened for safety reasons) through a local mentoring or Big Brothers and Big Sisters program. If you are members of a church, you may find that, if the congregation is aware of your needs, there may be church members who would be more than happy to help your family out. If you live near a Boys and Girls Club, that would be an awesome place for your kids to recieve adult coaching and support. They do many types of projects from crafts to cooking to sports to homework. They often provide transportation to the program from school. Local churches, YMCAs, and/or Salvation Army branches often offer similar programs. If you have any relatives or close friends, you may want to let them know of your needs. They may be interested in helping but not aware of your needs (or afraid of offending you by offering to do some "parenting" tasks). You might be able to repay the favor by letting their kids spend the night when your husband is home to help out. You might be able to offer something else (like crocheting blankets or something that you are able to do). I hope that you continue to take every opportunity that you can to share your own stories and experiences and listening to your children, too. You may not be able to do some of the things with your children that you really want to, but they will always remember your love and attention. Best wishes!
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